Free central heating system scheme expanded across Neath Port Talbot

A free central heating system scheme is now available across all areas of Neath Port Talbot for those residents who meet the relevant criteria.

The limited offer is part of Neath Port Talbot’s Council’s Warm Homes Fund which will fully fund a new gas or oil central heating system into homes which don’t currently have one. The fund will be allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.

It aims to provide a helping hand to vulnerable households that do not have a central heating system and who, during the colder months, are struggling to stay warm. It is open to homeowners and to private tenants (with their landlord’s permission) who meet certain eligibility criteria based on income, health or other personal circumstances.

The scheme was previously only available to households in rural off gas areas but additional funding has enabled the council to make this offer available to residents in all areas across the county borough who meet the eligibility criteria.

The council’s Housing Renewal’s Team is continuing to answer queries and process applications from residents who are interested in applying for the fund during the coronavirus outbreak. Work installing the central heating systems is currently on hold, and will only restart when deemed safe to do so and in accordance with government guidelines.

Councillor Peter Richards, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services and Health, said:

“We believe that everyone deserves to live in a warm home and we are delighted to have received this funding from the Warm Homes Fund.

“That’s why we are encouraging residents to think beyond this year’s summer period and ensure their home is ready for the cold winter months.

“The fund will not only help residents to reduce their fuel bills, but it will reduce the likelihood of health related issues brought on by living in a cold, damp home. I would urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible to receive support to get in touch.”

The project is funded by the £150m Warm Homes Fund, which has been established by National Grid, and is administered by Community Investment Company, Affordable Warmth Solutions, to support local authorities to address some of the issues affecting fuel poor households.

Jeremy Nesbitt, Managing Director of Affordable Warmth Solutions, said:

“We are excited about this investment from National Grid and are delighted to support Neath Port Talbot’s Council’s Warm Homes Fund to fund the scheme to address fuel poverty. Solving the issues associated with Fuel Poverty continues to challenge many of our stakeholders and the feedback we’ve already received provides evidence of how the Warm Homes Fund will make a positive difference to thousands of homes throughout Great Britain.”

If you are interested in applying, the first step is to check your eligibility at www.npt.gov.uk/warmhomesfund . If you are unsure if you meet the criteria, contact the team on 01639 686504 or email renewalarea@npt.gov.uk .